Blueberry. The origin of this fruit is in North America.. But in recent decades, Spain has become the main producer of blueberries in Europe. And is that since the discovery of the benefits of this fruit in our body everyone wants to consume it.
The blueberry, in addition, has the advantage of being able to be combined with other foods, and thus be enjoyed in any of the meals that are made during the day. In addition, its price is not high and can be easily found in any greengrocer or supermarket.
You may be interested in:
- “Pineapple: the 8 benefits of this tropical fruit for your health”.
- “Pomegranate: properties and benefits of this unique fruit”.
- “The 9 benefits of avocado (in beauty and health)”
The blueberry has multiple benefits for the body.
The blueberry comes from a shrub with a thin stem and small leaves. When its fruit appears it is white, and as it ripens it obtains its characteristic reddish color. This berry is larger than the leaves of the blueberry bush itself.
It has been called “the superfruit of the 21st century”. This is because the cranberry has many properties and benefits for humans. Here is a list of just a few of the virtues of this little berry.
1. Anti-inflammatory
One of the main benefits of bilberry is its anti-inflammatory property. Among its properties are proanthocyanidins, which are precisely agents that help reduce inflammation in the body’s organs. This is very useful for diseases such as fibromyalgia and muscle stiffness.
2. Cares for the skin
Blueberries contain a large amount of antioxidants.. This property allows its consumption to help protect the skin from free radicals that damage it and cause premature aging and wrinkles. For this reason its consumption is recommended to maintain a smooth and youthful skin.
3. Helps in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease
Another benefit of bilberry is that its antioxidants also help to reinforce neuronal functions.. For this reason, frequent consumption of blueberries helps prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Antioxidants function as neuroprotective agents, which help to slow down cognitive decline, which is closely linked to the development of Alzheimer’s.
4. Boosts brain cells
Consumption of blueberries helps generate brain cells.. We generate these cells daily, however the consumption of this berry helps to increase the birth of these cells directly in the hippocampus. In this area of the brain, memory functions are controlled.
5. Helps against diabetes
According to recent studies, bilberry also works as a protector against diabetes.. Although it does not replace any treatment, its consumption can help to counteract insulin resistance, one of the main problems that causes diabetes. In addition, this fruit is very low in calories, so it can be included in the diet without any problem.
6. Reduces blood pressure
Its antioxidant properties also help regulate blood pressure.. This is because blueberries allow a greater flow of antioxidants in the body, thus preventing the accumulation of bad cholesterol in the body and as a result of this process the blood pressure is maintained in healthy parameters.
7. Helps to have healthy hair
The frequent consumption of blueberries helps hair to grow healthily.. These fruits contain a high concentration of vitamin B, which helps hair grow faster. In addition, all this amount of antioxidants also helps the hair look shiny and with great vitality.
8. Delays the effects of aging
One of the best-known properties of blueberries is that it slows down aging.. It is a fruit that contains very high amounts of antioxidants, as we have already mentioned. This, together with its anti-inflammatory properties and the amount of vitamins it contains, helps to delay the aging processes of cells in the body.
9. Promotes concentration and memory
Consuming blueberries helps to improve concentration and memory.. Another of the properties of this berry is that it contains flavonoids. This substance helps to enhance cognitive processes such as memory, concentration and cognitive functions in general. In addition, as already mentioned, it helps in the generation of brain cells related to memory.
10. Improves eyesight
Among the antioxidants contained in blueberries, one in particular helps eye health.. It is anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that works directly related to the eye and vision. This organ also suffers from the effects of aging, and thanks to anthocyanins this process can be delayed and thus improve vision.
11. Promotes the presence of good cholesterol
In the treatment for the reduction of bad cholesterol, blueberries are great allies.. This is due once again to the high amount of antioxidants contained in this small fruit. This property allows to improve the hepatic function of synthesis of good cholesterol, and this in turn helps to reduce bad cholesterol in the blood.
12. Promotes cardiovascular health
Eating blueberries regularly helps to maintain good cardiovascular health.. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this fruit are highly efficient in protecting the heart. Thanks to the fact that they help reduce bad cholesterol, regulate blood pressure and reduce the oxidation process of the organs, blueberries are an excellent ally to take care of the heart.
13. Reduces the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease
Among the diseases that blueberries help prevent is Parkinson’s disease.. This disease is closely related to oxidation and brain deterioration typical of the aging process. Blueberries protect the brain from free radicals, which tend to damage healthy tissue and affect brain functions.
14. Prevents urinary tract infections
Cranberries help reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections.. If consumed in the form of juice every day can help prevent the occurrence of urinary tract infections. This is because some substances in cranberry prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder tissue. In this way, infections are avoided.
15. Helping in the treatment of erectile dysfunction
Another great benefit of blueberry consumption is that it can help with erectile dysfunction.. The substances contained in blueberries help to increase the production of endogenous nitric oxide. This substance is associated with blood flow, which in turn promotes penile erection.